NCJ Number
153578
Journal
American Jails Volume: 8 Issue: 6 Dated: (January/February 1995) Pages: 41-44,46
Date Published
1995
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article examines the need for improved writing skills among jail correctional officers and suggests strategies for achieving this.
Abstract
Like police officers, correctional officers spend a considerable amount of time writing reports and communicating in written form; therefore, their ability to write well is often directly tied to their job performance. Jail administrators must acknowledge that they are responsible for training their employees. This means they must provide ongoing training and instruction for correctional officers that will improve their writing skills. Collaborative relationships with local colleges and universities can provide enormous opportunities for assistance in the development and instruction of writing programs. Further, the use of computers and technology can also expand the options available to a jail administrator. No single strategy may be the best response to the problem. Each jail administrator must assess jail staff needs and the types of resources available for training. A number of approaches can be effective, so long as they allow the employees to practice their writing and experience what it means to write well. 12 references